2008 Woodie Awards
Local fitness centers offer alternatives to Ramsey
JENNIFER PAXTON
Issue date: 8/27/08 Section: Variety
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But for those dedicated to a workout plan - whether it's geared toward losing the "Freshman 15" (or 20)or simply getting toned - how often you exercise is often just as important as where you exercise.
Much like dating, to the exercise-committed finding the perfect gym is a careful, time-intensive process. It takes quite a few visits before you can decide if it's truly "the one."
With an Olympic-sized 50-meter pool, a diving well, state-of-the-art track and more, the Ramsey Student Center can be considered Mecca to the well-rounded fitness nut.
But for those students no longer living on-campus or looking for a new calorie-burning perspective, alternatives are available.
- The Omni Club
Where: 2361 West Broad Street
Good for: Cardio-holics
The Omni Club offers more cardio than all other gyms in Athens combined, including Ramsey.
"We did the math, we're nerds," said Don Allen, Omni Club general manager. "[In my time working here] I've never seen anyone wait for a piece of [cardio] equipment," he said. The club offers LCD TVs on all cardio equipment, month-to-month memberships, an "abs-only" room and a women's-only facility on site.
- Healing Arts Centre
Where: 834 Prince Avenue
Good for: Open-minded variety seekers
Martial arts, Afro-haitian dance and belly-dancing are just a few of the classes taught here. Commitment is encouraged at this facility with a 6-week yoga program, but participants can still "drop in" as they please. Classes are often candlelit.
"[It's] an absolute feeling of reverence if that's what you're seeking, but not at all dogmatic," said Meghan Burke, studio owner.
- The HardCore Gym
Where: 1685 Commerce Road
Good for: Self-defense enthusiasts
Drawing from combat sports such as boxing, kickboxing and Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, The HardCore Gym uses personal training to teach self-defense skills. Professional mixed martial arts fighters prepare for the ring at this padded-wall facility, but beginners are welcome to start from square one.
- Rubber Soul Yoga Revolution
Where: 675 Pulaski Street
Good for: Inquiring, beginner yogis
Classes at this railroad-adjacent, donation-based yoga studio range from Pilates to a Monday night Laughing Club. "Gentle," open-level classes are offered for the yoga novice, as well as more advanced lessons.
"It depends on what you want to start out with," said Cal Clements, studio owner and instructor. "Some say 'if I never saw someone do a headstand, I never would have continued practicing yoga,'" he said.
- "The great outdoors"
Good for: Nature lovers
The Intramural Fields is a short walk from Ramsey and provides tennis courts, softball fields and lengthy fitness trails to tackle at your own pace. The State Botanical Garden of Georgia also boasts hiking trails, and has handicapped-accessible paved path alongside the gardens.
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